A call has been made for the people of the Virgin Islands to invest, protect, respect and value nurses as the Territory observes International Nurses Day today, May 12.

Chief Nursing Officer, Ms. Jacinth Hannibal while issuing the call, highlighted the contribution nurses continue to make towards the advancement of healthcare access within the Territory. 

“Our nurses play a significant role, on our sister Islands, in the Prison, the National Health Insurance and other insurance systems, in the care of our elderly, in administration and on the frontlines.  We want to make sure that they know their services are invaluable to the people of the Territory and that we love and appreciate them,” Ms. Hannibal said.

The Chief Nursing Officer further recognised nurses for their commitment and dedication to providing services during the Territory’s most recent difficult times, which included working through hurricanes, floods, and the pandemic.

“We thank all of our nurses for their selfless service and their contribution to the health of our population. Today is our day to recognise the value they bring to life and health, from birth to death, and we just want to say thank you for your service," Ms. Hannibal said.

The community is invited to observe International Nurses Day by making nurses feel special through an outpouring of love of and appreciation.

This year’s theme for International Nurses Day and for the rest of the year’s campaign is, “Our Nurses: Our future” This campaign sets out the direction for nursing and highlights the strategic steps necessary now to secure a future state that addresses global health challenges and improves global health for all.

International Nurses Day is an annual observance held on May 12 that commemorates the birth of Florence Nightingale in 1820 and also serves to highlight the important role nurses fulfill in health care.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to improving the health of the people of the Virgin Islands.